Fuel Costs Reach Rp 15 Million per Month, Fortuner Owners Rarely Use Daily

The rise in the price of non-subsidised diesel fuel is beginning to alter the habits of diesel car users across Indonesia. Many are now more selective about using their vehicles and are even switching to other options deemed more economical. This is directly felt by Ali Fahmi, owner of a 2019 Toyota Fortuner TRD and member of the ID42ner 1451 community. “Since the non-subsidised diesel price increase, I no longer use the Fortuner for daily trips. Now it’s only for out-of-town journeys,” Ali told KOMPAS.com on Wednesday (6/5/2026). According to him, the sharp rise in operational costs is the main reason for this change. Previously, fuel expenses were considered reasonable, but now they have increased significantly. “Usually, I fill up with Dexlite for around Rp 4 million to Rp 5 million a month, now it can be three times that. So around Rp 12 million to Rp 15 million,” he said. This situation is also experienced by other community members. Ali mentioned that some diesel car users are starting to consider electric vehicles as an alternative, especially for daily use in the city. “Friends in the community group have already bought many EVs; they’re more economical,” he said. Nevertheless, Ali hopes that the price of non-subsidised diesel does not continue to rise sharply. He believes that as long as the price remains below a certain figure, using a diesel car is still reasonable. “I hope the increases aren’t like this. Prices below Rp 20,000 are still okay,” he said. Meanwhile, Andre, a user of a 2021 Toyota Fortuner VRZ diesel in Jakarta, says he has anticipated the potential fuel price rise by owning an electric vehicle as his primary mode of transport. “It’s starting to get heavy, fortunately I’ve prepared an EV. Usually the Fortuner is used according to the vehicle plate date (even days), but now it will be used rarely. More towards full EV for daily use,” said Andre. This phenomenon shows that changes in fuel prices not only affect operational costs but also influence vehicle usage patterns and consumer preferences in choosing car types.